Ex-AG Mandelblit Testifies in Netanyahu Trial, Admits Serious Actions Occurred
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit testified in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trial, confirming that investigative actions were taken without his explicit approval and that "serious actions" occurred. Mandelblit also stated he could not recall if he personally signed the amended indictment. The trial, held in Jerusalem, saw Netanyahu arrive later in the proceedings, with the courtroom packed with supporters and journalists. Mandelblit's testimony is considered highly unusual by prosecutors.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit testified in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trial.
- Mandelblit confirmed investigative actions were taken without his explicit approval.
- He stated that "serious actions" occurred during the investigations.
- Mandelblit could not recall if he personally signed the amended indictment.
- Netanyahu arrived at the Jerusalem District Court during the testimony.
- Prosecutors called Mandelblit's testimony "highly unusual."
Former Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit began his testimony on Sunday in the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Jerusalem District Court. During questioning, Mandelblit confirmed that investigative actions were carried out without his explicit approval and stated he could not recall if he personally signed the amended indictment. Prime Minister Netanyahu later arrived at the courtroom.
The courtroom was filled with journalists and Netanyahu supporters, including prominent political figures such as Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, MK Tali Gottlieb, and former Israel Bar Association head Efi Naveh. At the start of his testimony, Mandelblit recounted an incident outside the courtroom where a journalist aggressively questioned him, to which he responded by stating he would not discuss the trial in the media.
Deputy State Attorney Jonathan Tadmor remarked that Mandelblit's testimony was highly unusual, noting that calling prosecutors to testify could become a tool for personal attacks and deter internal discourse. He emphasized that their non-objection was due to the unique circumstances and not indicative of a broader policy regarding other senior officials.
Netanyahu's lawyer, Amit Haddad, pledged a professional and calm examination, suggesting that significant information may have been withheld from Mandelblit. Mandelblit confirmed that investigations into Cases 1000, 2000, and 4000 occurred during his tenure (2016-2022), stating he was unaware of the case numbering system. He also clarified that he did not identify any suspicion against Netanyahu in Case 3000.
Mandelblit confirmed he refused a pre-testimony meeting with the defense, believing it inappropriate for the state's chief prosecutor. He prepared by reviewing media reports and consulting an external lawyer. He acknowledged signing the indictments but admitted he could not recall if he physically signed the amended indictment or if his signature was copied. When questioned about whether police acted behind his back, he responded, "It's possible." He also confirmed that Netanyahu's cases required dozens of substantive meetings weekly for approval of investigative actions. Responding to Haddad's assertion that Koresh Bernor claimed Mandelblit approved every action, he stated, "In hindsight, that is not correct." When Haddad stated, "Nevertheless, actions were taken, even serious ones," Mandelblit replied, "Correct."
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